WhatsApp edges closer to multi-device support

(Image credit: Shutterstock / Alex Ruhl)

There have been hints and rumors of multi-device support coming to WhatsApp for what seems like forever. Now, in the latest beta version of the Android app, there are further signs of progress having been made and the promise that users will be able to test out the feature soon.

The updated beta version of the app also requires users to agree to new terms of service – as we have been expecting for a while. Among the changes to the terms of privacy policy user must agree to are how WhatsApp share data with parent company Facebook.

The updated terms of service are now part of WhatsApp Beta 2.21.1.1, but they won't make their way to the main release until February. The agreement screen in WhatsApp Beta indicates that the new policies come into force on February 8, 2021, and you will need to agree to them if you want to continue using the chat app.

Multi-device support is something that users have been begging for for quite some time, and although it's still not activated or testable yet, the app does reveal that it will eventually be possible to use WhatsApp on the web without the need to keep your phone connected as you currently do.

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WhatsApp Beta doesn't give any indication of quite when we can expect multi-device support to be enabled, but in-app screens reveal that it will be possible to use WhatsApp on up to four devices at once. When the feature does go fully live, it will be possible to archive and mute chats, delete messages and chats, and place calls from the desktop app, but not all of these options will be available immediately

If you are already signed up for the WhatsApp beta program, you will be able to download the latest update via Google Play. If you're not currently a beta user, there are unfortunately no more spaces available for new sign-ups, but you can keep an eye out for openings here.

Check out how to use WhatsApp dark mode

Via WABetaInfo

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Sofia is a tech journalist who's been writing about software, hardware and the web for nearly 25 years – but still looks as youthful as ever! After years writing for magazines, her life moved online and remains fueled by technology, music and nature.

Having written for websites and magazines since 2000, producing a wide range of reviews, guides, tutorials, brochures, newsletters and more, she continues to write for diverse audiences, from computing newbies to advanced users and business clients. Always willing to try something new, she loves sharing new discoveries with others.

Sofia lives and breathes Windows, Android, iOS, macOS and just about anything with a power button, but her particular areas of interest include security, tweaking and privacy. Her other loves include walking, music, her two Malamutes and, of course, her wife and daughter.

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